Purchasing

Supplier involvement is absolutely critical
"As we have started to strategically source indirect materials and services, it has become very apparent that engaging our suppliers—getting them more actively involved in our business—is absolutely critical," says Dave Galbraith, strategic sourcing manager for indirect materials and services, John Deere, Moline, Ill.

• Technology: A tool to help consolidate the MRO buy
• Technology can reinforce MRO purchasing strategy
• Suppliers make a strong commitment to the process
• How buyers deliver MRO profits
• Top execs pinpoint six game-changing strategies

Buylines Economic Outlook 'Reverse soft landing' will wring out economic excess CPI Edition What's Hot Citric Acid Prices for popular drink additive slip slowly, steadily Food Chemicals Price cycle hits bottom Glycerin Producers won't be paying more to keep foods moist Sodium Bicarbonate No big rise in the forecast for this leavening agent Strategic Sourcing Smart buying saves $1 billion at General Mills Departments Buylines Business index gains a point OEMs save by partnering for chemicals management Bush moves closer to fast-track trade authority Qualified buyers continue to land good purchasing jobs Purchasing uses tech tools to get tough on travel costs Rules rewritten under Bush Buyers' group fights import quota bill Who's News Career Development Attractive Option for Purchasing Pros Nearing the Ends of Their Careers Inside Purchasing What the all-stars say about buying Leadtimes Purchasing adds new leads Logistics DOT backs off reduction in hazmat registration fees View from Nasstrac: What worries shippers Product Update Expect supply crunch if demand rallies fast Professional Profile Verizon

Metals What's Hot Chips Magnesium Consumption growth hopes require secure supplies Metals Mining Nonferrous giants BHP and Billiton to merge Stainless Steel Manufacturing slump slows specialty steel buys, prices Domestic mills look to automotive parts markets Steel Bar Market Prices have slumped and orders remain lethargic Titanium Oregon firm exits sponge News Economy How Supply Managers See Business Prices Factors Affecting Product Cost Supply Whats Happening In Markets Tip Sheet Key Metrics and Supply Alert Transaction Prices Transaction Prices